Most music professors would probably agree that the biggest obstacle for a music student is a lack of rhythm. Tragically, I had an epic lack of rhythm. I’m sure my teacher wanted to take my flute and smack some rhythm into my head. My dance teachers would yell at me from across the room whenever I didn’t dance on the beat. Through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, I learned how to keep a steady beat. One year later, I now have great rhythm and my teacher no longer wants to beat me over the head. My goal is to be a professional flutist and dance teacher. I believe that I will be able to achieve my goals through my outstanding work ethic, commitment, daily prayers, and positive attitude.

I have had nine years of private lessons and five years playing in well-respected youth orchestras. It was a privilege to play in the Schaumburg Youth Orchestra for two years. In 2010, I received the SYO Scholarship and the first SYO Alumni Scholarship in 2011. This is my fourth year in Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra and my third in the Chamber Music Institute. Last year, I was chosen to participate in a master class led by the fabulous flute diva Amy Porter. Competing in the EYSO Concerto Competitions the last two years was a challenging yet rewarding experience.

As a Music Performance major and Dance minor, the work load is immense. I take a full load of classes, play in three ensembles, teach dance, and take dance classes. It’s impossible to get everything done without setting goals every day, week, month, semester, and year. My weekends are certainly not spent at clubs. I spend my weekends in my room. Practicing. Flute. Alone. I try very hard to not think about my nonexistent social life. Putting inspirational quotes on my walls helps me to stay positive. I have made a conscious decision to devote my life to excellence.

My goal is to achieve excellence in all areas of my life. I practice every day even when I am sick, tired, or just not in the mood to play scales for the thousandth time. I pray daily to God asking for Him to help me be the best that I can be. I have learned the hard way that I must have balance in my life in order to stay sane and I do that by reading, dancing, exercising, and eating vast quantities of chocolate.

I will succeed not just because I am an accomplished flutist, but because I set goals and am strong and balanced in body, mind and spirit. I stand out from the multitude of musicians because I am a genuinely happy person who truly enjoys life.

In May of 2012, my beloved father was diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer. When I wasn’t helping to take care of him, I was practicing flute or studying. Sadly, he passed away on October 31, 2012. Dealing with my father’s diagnosis and eventual death was the most painful and difficult experience of my life. By the grace of God I got through the most heartbreaking time of my life with grace and dignity while still staying focused on my goals.